Tips for Preventing and Fighting Boat Fires

It is any boaties nightmare to see his boat on fire. Fire was a cause of loss among Mariner’s insurance claims.
Risks levels tend to increase with the age of the vessel. This makes it critical to inspect the onboard system and fire-safety hardware frequently.
Here are some amazing tips on how you can prevent boat fires from happening.
1. Safety test the Tank and Hoses
Gas fumes can bring about terrible onboard blasts and flames. Luckily, these are uncommon, especially on new vessels. However, you should never underestimate fire security. Give your fuel tank and all hoses and connections a thorough inspection regularly, or ask a qualified marine specialist to do as such.
On older vessels, fuel can consume hoses, making them delaminate and leak. Ensure you replace old hoses with new fit for purpose hoses, and double clamp all connections with stainless-steel hose clasps.
Regular checks of the fuel system are very important. Old fuel tanks are inclined to corrosion that may result to leaks. excessive exposure of tanks in the water may lead to the development of pinholes.
2. Utilize Fuses and Breakers
Wires and circuit breakers ought to be put as near the power source as possible (within 25 cm of wire length).
Adding fuses and breakers serve as your silent watchmen, prepared to yield themselves or to trip and keep a hot wire from beginning a fire. Use the size of circuit or breaker that is determined by the maker for every accessory.
3. Overhaul Corroded Connections
Corrosion is an unavoidable truth on saltwater boats and a fire-security issue. It is important that you go through your electrical framework at least annually (or request that an expert do as such) and look for corroded connections, terminals and wires. Change any component showing signs of corrosion because this will only get worst over time.
4. Set up Fire Ports
Many modern boats include fire ports to get to engines and other enclosed spaces, allowing you to insert the nozzle of the fire extinguisher through the port offering protection by not being exposed to actual fire.
Time is of the essence when fighting a fire, installing hatches and fire ports in the boat allowing you to best fight the fire and hopefully come through unscathed.
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